A Tribute to Alva Mae "Bede" Broussard

A poem written and read at her
funeral services on Nov. 11, 2009
By her close friend Marci White

“Bede”

She came into this world in a southern way
This little baby girl had a lifetime of the sweetest things to say
She was born in Erath Louisiana the 2nd of December
Was well educated, loved life, and became a mother who will be lovingly remembered

She walked in a Christ-like path ~ attended mass everyday
Was a faithful servant of the Lord ~ helped others in countless ways
She was a Delphian, an avid bridge player, involved in many clubs, and participated in numerous organizations
She gave the “sisters” her time, her gift of friendship and was happy to share in their lives, as well as giving her service to the parish for many types of occasions

She was so special to so many due to her loving nature and infectious laughter

To those she met … who undoubtedly kept … the thought of her never meeting a stranger

She was a woman of great wisdom for she had years of walking the walk
She had many things to share and through her experiences she did talk
Some of pain and some of joy ~ but mostly about great Faith To give to God your burdens and pray faithfully and wait

She was a voracious reader of books and loved to travel and see the world

She loved to spend time in the kitchen cooking her Cajun gumbo in her pearls

These were passions of hers that got passed down to her children don’t you see

They love to cook and taste some wine … but have such her personality

She loved to entertain and go to luncheons just to meet her friends
She shared her husband Rufus with the Shell Oil Geologist men He took her on those trips with all the kids they brought in tow
To any place they wanted to share that they loved ~ for life was an education to behold

Bede’s presence will be missed here by so many for so long
We can’t believe God’s Blessing ~ He took her when she was still strong
She didn’t want to suffer so she prayed His Will Be Done
So He sent the angels for her and up to Heaven she did come

They sang her praises joyfully as they carried her up above
Her tireless work on earth was over and God’s heart was full of her Love

She was greeted at the Heavenly Gates by the most beautiful colors and gold

Denise she hugged so tight and kissed … and Rufus gave her baby Paul Maurice to hold

They are all in Heaven now and her heart is so at peace
She sends her love to those she’s left behind and will watch over you and me

Special Photos of Bede provided by her sons Paul and Rufus LeBlanc